Haley Burford, GM Contributing Writer/Proofreader | Mar 10, 2024 | Column, March - April 2024
Many may feel that it’s somehow “too late” and that there is some sort of an expiration date for starting to learn an instrument. Both Royal Hawaiian Bandmaster Clarke Bright and Eric Kop, assistant administrator and principal horn, emphasize that it is never too late to get into music, in whatever form it takes.
Sherry Goya, Generations Magazine Staff | Mar 4, 2024 | Column, March - April 2024
Since the creation of the Senior Classic Games in 1980 by Herbert Yasuhara, the City and County of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) senior clubs have held games in March at the Halawa District Park.
Sherry Goya, Generations Magazine Staff | Jan 1, 2024 | Column, Jan - Feb 2024
The November/December 2023 “Ask a Kupuna” column posed this question: “Do you have a favorite Valentine’s Day story to share?” Marlene wrote, “After a disappointing experience the year before at an upscale downtown restaurant, we decided to never go out to dinner...
Frank B. Shaner - “I’m not ready to be called a senior.” | Jan 1, 2024 | Column, Jan - Feb 2024
Valentine’s Day is coming up — a good time to talk about dating as a 70ish, single senior male. You were married for 45 years and now you’re alone because your lovely wife passed a while back. You’re wanting companionship and thinking even about dating. Your health is...
Steven Santiago, Senior Section Coordinator, City & County of Honolulu, Dept. of Parks & Recreation | Sep 3, 2023 | Column, Sept - Oct 2023
What is that craaazy beat? It is rhythmic drumming!!! Rhythmic Drumming is a form of exercise enjoyed around the world. The Department of Parks and Recreation offers this exercise to our island seniors through the Senior Citizens Program. The class is offered at...
Sherry Goya, Generations Magazine Staff | Sep 3, 2023 | Column, Sept - Oct 2023
You think you are young at 40 years old, right? But what if your intended life-long job was terminated and you’re not ready to retire? What do you do when a door closes on you like that?
Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | Sep 3, 2023 | Column, Sept - Oct 2023
The seventh annual HPGS Fundraiser will honor an individual who has, for much of his adult life, done a lot for Hawai’i’s kūpuna. This annual celebration will raise funds for student scholarships in 2024. The Hawaii Pacific Gerontological Society (HPGS) raises funds and awards undergraduate and graduate scholarships to college students interested in careers related to aging, long-term care or death and dying.
Frank B. Shaner, a Senior with a Burning Desire to Express Himself | Jul 13, 2023 | Column, July - August 2023
Well, Generations wanted me to expound on the inevitable and that is…dying. I can safely say that I know something about dying because for many years as a stand-up comedian, I died many times on stage. It’s not a good feeling.
Nancy Downes, Director of Marketing, Legacy of Life Hawai‘i | Jul 13, 2023 | Column, July - August 2023
If you could save a life, would you? We are all asked this vital question at the DMV. Checking the box YES to be an organ or tissue donor means we are willing to selflessly pass on the gift of life to those desperately in need.
Edward Motosue, Co-Principal and Vice President of Financial Benefits Insurance Inc. | Jul 13, 2023 | Column, July - August 2023
I was sitting outside an Ala Moana Hotel meeting room texting on my phone. Suddenly, I looked up. I had no idea where I was. I realized I was actually lying on the floor and looking at the walls and ceiling. Sweat seemed to be pouring down my face. I reached up to wiped the perspiration, only to discover it was blood. Soon a physical therapist appeared, asking me to follow his finger with my eyes. He asked me to raise my hands above my head, then to smile. He said I didn’t have a stroke or heart attack.
Lisa Darcy, Founder of Share Your Mana | Mar 2, 2023 | Column, Mar - Apr 2023
Growing up modestly in a suburb of Chicago, I remember the first time we went camping. I was so excited, because this was a family vacation. My brothers and sisters helped pack the hot dogs and buns, collected our sleeping bags and pillows, and gathered wood for the fire. We were thrilled to eat canned beans! It was an exciting adventure… until the doorbell rang.
Haley Burford, GM Contributing Writer/Proofreader | Mar 2, 2023 | Column, Mar - Apr 2023
Whether the distance spans countries or oceans, living separated from your loved ones is always difficult — especially when the loved ones are our elders — namely, our grandparents.
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Mar 2, 2023 | Column, Mar - Apr 2023
Many of us include the ritual of spring cleaning around this time of year. Spring cleaning is all about tackling the areas you may have neglected during the rest of the year. And nothing is more satisfying than a sparkling clean home, right? But don’t forget about your computer and devices.
Debra Lordan, GM Senior Editor | Nov 2, 2022 | Column, Nov - Dec 2022
Here in Hawai‘i, the idea of multiple generations sharing meals together under one roof isn’t reserved for just the holidays. Hawai‘i has the highest percentage of multigenerational households in the country, with nearly 8 percent of households statewide classified as multigenerational — at least three generations living under one roof. This household structure represents one of the most beautiful things about Hawai‘i. It embodies the word ‘ohana and exemplifies the concept of an extended family.
Christine Spencer, Maui County Regional Coordinator, Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii | Nov 1, 2022 | Column, Nov - Dec 2022
Especially during this time of year, many of us shift our mindsets to consider how we can spread aloha and do good in the world. Giving back to our community comes in many forms. There are ways that take no money — donating your voice and time. “Activist philanthropy” is a newer term, but it simply relates to people who embrace the role of public advocate to raise awareness and bring precedence to essential issues. These people are speaking up and sharing their stories to inspire real change.
Mahlon Moore | Sep 29, 2022 | Column, Sept - Oct 2022
There are always two sides of the same coin. Social media has made it possible for everyone to stay more connected over the years and across the miles. It’s reconnected old friends and kept families close. Unfortunately, it’s also given scammers the ability to become more sophisticated and creative.
Gary A. Powell, Founder & Executive Director, The Caregiver Foundation | Jun 25, 2022 | Column, July - August 2022
While we are taught to treat those of a different race or religion equitably, seniors often face age discrimination. It first appears as an attempt to be helpful. Someone holds a door open for us. The bus waits a little longer for us to climb aboard. The bank teller smiles more as he hones his patience with our slowness.
Martha Khlopin, Host of "A Medicare Moment with Martha Radio Show" | Jun 25, 2022 | Column, July - August 2022
Not too long ago, my extended family enjoyed getting all the cousins together to watch “The Wizard of Oz” every year. We loved watching Dorothy follow the yellow brick road to Oz. It was a great bonding activity. Now those same family members are calling to ask for help with Medicare. Where did the time go?
Annette Pang, The Forever Family Communicator | Jun 25, 2022 | Column, July - August 2022
Last March, many witnessed the slap that was heard round the world. The unrehearsed and unscripted incident played out in front of the planet’s best actors, with 17 million viewers watching from home. It occurred in supposedly one of most civilized and curated places in the land. But everyone saw that even “winners” are not immune from knee-jerk reactions when messages perceived as offensive produce hurt feelings.
Teri Pinney, Instructor, Kapiolani Community College | Jun 25, 2022 | Column, July - August 2022
The US Census Bureau has reported that people aged 65 and older will outnumber those under 18 years old by 2034. Every year, millions of these senior citizens look at life after retirement as an opportunity to expand their horizons and learn more. It’s a time to take special-interest lessons or even earn a degree. For some, it may even mean going back into the workforce and starting a new career.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jun 25, 2022 | Column, July - August 2022
It’s a new day and a new time in today’s world of work. A shifting economic landscape continues to drive significant changes in the American workplace. Nearly every aspect of the country’s workforce has changed in the last 50 years.
Martha Khlopin, Host of "A Medicare Moment with Martha Radio Show" | May 3, 2022 | Column, May - June 2022
Ever imagine you might need to become a contestant on “Jeopardy” to pay your healthcare costs? Your answer may be no, but it seems it pays to understand how a health maintenance organization (HMO) works, if you have one.
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | May 3, 2022 | Column, May - June 2022
When you open an online account of any kind (anything from Facebook to online banking), you generally want to set the minimum password length to at least eight characters. The longer the password, the harder it is to crack, so for even greater security, set the...
Teri Pinney, Instructor, Kapiolani Community College | May 3, 2022 | Column, May - June 2022
Some of us seniors may still cling to the belief that the old days were so much better. However, most of us have certainly developed an appetite for the latest cellphones, ultra-modern appliances and high-tech cars. Likely as a result from the pandemic, baby boomers who previously gathered to talk story, now chat on Facebook.
Kathy Wyatt, RN, MSN, MBA, LNHA, President, Hale Hau‘oli Hawaii | Feb 27, 2022 | Column, Living Life, March-April 2022
Retirement insecurity is one of the most serious challenges facing the country today. Most at risk are private sector workers whose employers do not offer a workplace retirement savings plan. However, the Hawai‘i State Legislature has initiated action on this critical issue.
Martha Khlopin, Host of "A Medicare Moment with Martha Radio Show" | Feb 27, 2022 | Column, Living Life, March-April 2022
It’s time to begin your spring cleaning! This year, don’t forget to include your wallet, the home of your critical medical and insurance cards. Do you know which cards you should carry or dispose of?
Ron Lockwood, Commander VFW Department of Hawaii | Dec 30, 2021 | Column, January - February 2022
The call came in. “Help! Papa needs an ADA-compliant bathroom.” According to Adele, his granddaughter, “Papa refuses to come downstairs to shower because he says he already has a blankly-blank shower upstairs.” Jim “Papa” Raynor is a 98½-year-old WWII veteran.
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Dec 30, 2021 | Column, January - February 2022
Major corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, small businesses and private individuals are all being targeted by ransomware. The law enforcement and cybersecurity communities believe many of the cybercriminals behind these attacks are connected to organized crime, anti-US entities or even terrorist groups. It is an ongoing challenge to identify hackers and bring them to justice.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Dec 30, 2021 | Column, January - February 2022
In 2010, I wrote a booklet for Career Partners International, a leading outplacement counseling firm, in which I compared the 20th century workplace with the 21st century workplace. In simple terms, I made the case that the once-upon-a-time dominant workplace of regular, full-time workers was fast becoming a workplace of workers who work part-time, some of the time, for free or for a fixed fee.
Rick Tabor, Generations Magazine Community Development Director | Jul 26, 2021 | August - September 2021, Column
It is always difficult and painful to loose a loved one, even as memories of them remain in our heart to comfort us. I’d like to share a few tried-and-true coping skills to help deal with a loss.
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Jul 26, 2021 | August - September 2021, Column
Social media is a great way for all of us to keep in touch with family and friends, and our kūpuna are no exception. The use of social media among senior citizens has been a growing trend. However, social media presents some extra risks for older people.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jul 26, 2021 | August - September 2021, Column
As we begin to put the harshest effects of COVID behind us, large numbers of us are developing ways to live and work that create positive outcomes from negative change. The emerging opportunities featured in this post are associated with fast-growing careers throughout Hawai‘i.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jun 4, 2021 | Column, June-July 2021
This past year has has served as a glaring stoplight for many people who assessed their slim chances of ever working again. The truth is that the changes we have experienced — those due to COVID-19 and more — have opportunities embedded within their threats. As previously promised, here is a straightforward, basic planning model for future work.
Jen Angeli, Brain Education Instructor, Kaimuki | Jun 3, 2021 | Column, June-July 2021
Have you ever examined your bedtime routine? You probably take care of basic bodily needs like brushing your teeth, but what about the rest of you? Where does your mind go? What about the stress and tension you’ve carried all day?
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Jun 3, 2021 | Column, June-July 2021
Now that COVID-19 vaccination is in full swing along with economic relief packages from the federal government, scammers are using phishing emails and texts, bogus social media posts, robocalls, impostor schemes and more to prey on the public.
Faith Gianan, General Manager of Roselani Place Assisted Living | Jun 3, 2021 | Column, June-July 2021
The overall mission for senior living communities is to provide socialization, wellness, a sense of community and independence. As the general manager for Roselani Place, my mission is to enrich the lives of our kūpuna and manifest my passion to enable them to live their lives to the fullest each and every day.
Rick Tabor, Generations Magazine Community Development Director | Jun 1, 2021 | Column, June-July 2021
Feelings are important because they can tell us what we need to do. To deal with our feelings, we must name them, realize it’s ok to feel them and express them in a safe way. Then we can decide what to do to feel better. It’s ok to have negative feelings. But owning our feelings rather than blaming others for them is the key to a sustainable resolution.
Gabi Sodeholm, Assistant Operations Manager, Soderholm Mobility, Inc. | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Column
When we all closed our doors, fluffed our couch pillows and settled in for what we thought was only going to be a two-week lockdown, no one could have imagined where we would be in 2021. We’re here now and life has a breeze of normalcy amid the chaos. Zoom family celebrations or business meetings are regularly scheduled in our calendars, delivery drivers know our routines and we’ve become more okay with staying in.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Column
Our changing workplace dynamic at this stage of life requires a new set of rules to help us navigate our careers. The first rule of the “new game:” To remain financially secure, most of us (over 50 percent) will need to continue to work — in some capacity — much later than in past generations.
Jen Angeli, Brain Education Instructor, Kaimuki | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Column
Have you ever observed how you wake up? Are you quick to rise or slow to get moving? Do you wake up happy or with a sense of dread, or is your mind already dealing with problems? If feeling better is important to you, consider starting your day more deliberately.
Rick Tabor, Generations Magazine Community Development Director | Apr 4, 2021 | April - May 2021, Column
Stress is a part of life. And our ability to manage stress is part of the resilience needed to live a well-balanced life. Our ability to cope with stress determines the quality of our life. How we handle stress defines who we are. Here are nine very practical coping skills strategies to help us cope with our stressors…
Eileen Phillips, RN, Attention Plus Care | Jan 31, 2021 | Column, February - March 2021
When the vaccine for COVID-19 is finally available, the decision to get inoculated will depend on where trust lies. When the doctor recommends a vaccine, will folks get it? The term “inoculation” was used as early as the year 1000 AD, when Chinese doctors were trying to eradicate smallpox. Their method involved grinding up smallpox scabs and blowing them into nostrils.
Generations Magazine Staff | Jan 31, 2021 | Column, February - March 2021
Hawai‘i is fortunate to have many people living well into their 90s and even 100s. Toyoko Nishiki, a 91-year-old woman, is one of the most active we have met.
Jen Angeli, Brain Education Instructor, Kaimuki | Jan 31, 2021 | Column, February - March 2021
Your body is always talking to you, and you, maybe without realizing it, are often talking to your body. For the most part, you usually respond to your body when you are hungry, sleepy or itchy… Sometimes you might get angry at it for not looking how you wish it would, or complain about the pain it’s holding. But how often do you communicate good feelings to your body?
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Jan 31, 2021 | Column, February - March 2021
Becoming a victim of credit card fraud is likely to happen to us all. We may lose our credit card (or debit card) and the finder may make unauthorized purchases. Or somehow, an online fraudster obtained our credit card information and has made unauthorized online purchases.
So what do you do when that happens?
Rick Tabor, Generations Magazine Community Development Director | Jan 31, 2021 | Column, February - March 2021
As a mental health professional for 45 years, I am increasingly concerned about the welfare of our most vulnerable populations since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since it began in February, approximately 54 percent of older adults surveyed reported increased loneliness, and associated depression and anxiety.
Christopher Duque, Online Security Advisor | Nov 27, 2020 | Column, Dec 2020 - Jan 2021
What happens when you pass away or there’s an emergency that leaves you incapacitated, and family members need to access your mobile devices, computers, emails and social media accounts? Have you documented this important information? Here are some tips:
Leigh Dicks, Generations Magazine Staff | Nov 27, 2020 | Column, Dec 2020 - Jan 2021
As we get older, more than a few seniors have seen their body change into a shape they had hoped it never would. I was hoping mine would actually shrink, but of course that didn’t happen. After working a high stress job, gaining 25 pounds and losing lots of sleep, I decided to get off that roller coaster. I’m now semi-retired. Fortunately for me, I am rarely sick and do not take any medication. So, I’m healthy despite weighing more than I should.
Jen Angeli, Brain Education Instructor, Kaimuki | Nov 27, 2020 | Column, Dec 2020 - Jan 2021
As you look back on 2020, take a moment and ask yourself some important questions: “How much of my focus was spent being affected by news, events, personal problems and situations around me? How did that make me feel?” And most importantly, “Do I want to spend the next year feeling the same way or do I want to feel better?”
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Nov 27, 2020 | Column, Dec 2020 - Jan 2021
Social isolation and loneliness are toxic to everyone’s health, but especially older adults. Given COVID-19 mandates to limit face-to-face contact for the foreseeable future, these feelings are certain to increase, accompanied by threats to health and well-being.
Generations Magazine Staff | Jul 28, 2020 | August - September 2020, Column
Shoppers across the county and around the globe cleaned out shelves of toilet tissue, disinfectant sprays/wipes, rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizers during the beginning of the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. Stores were overwhelmed due to fears of supply chain disruptions, although none occurred.
Steven Kawamura, Advising Elder at Kalihi Union Church | Jul 28, 2020 | August - September 2020, Column
I’d like to introduce you to a friend of mine. His name is Depression. I didn’t like being around him, but he dropped in whenever he felt like it.
Ron Lockwood, Commander VFW Department of Hawaii | Jul 28, 2020 | August - September 2020, Column
As a veteran who is “getting up there,” how to live out my last years comfortably without being a burden is more than a passing thought. Fortunately, there are 100 Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers (CLCs) across the country. Their mission is to restore the veteran to his or her highest level of physical and/or psychological well-being before being discharged to their own home.”
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jul 28, 2020 | August - September 2020, Column
There is plenty of evidence revealing that work boosts cognitive health. Delaying full-time retirement means mitigating the risk of several types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s.
Judge Daniel Foley (retired) | Jul 28, 2020 | August - September 2020, Column
As we age, we may not be able to do some things as well as we used to. But there’s one important thing we can do today with greater power and effectiveness: We can vote!
Chef Michi | Jul 17, 2020 | Column, March 2011
Here are all the ingredients and the directions to make a yummy Waldorf salad. Enjoy!
Kirk Matthews of KHON’s The Elderhood Project | Jul 15, 2020 | Column, March 2011
In early February, seniors enjoyed the company of each other and a number of middle school students at the annual Senior Valentine Dance at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Oh, and by the way, there were some celebrities on hand to take a spin or two around the dance floor. I have had the pleasure in the past of taking part in this frivolity.
Kirk Matthews of KHON’s The Elderhood Project | Jul 13, 2020 | Column, February 2011
Mrs. Matthews, Linda Coble, and I just celebrated our birthdays. I’m not going to say how old we are but I will say that we’ve had our AARP cards for quite a while. We are boomers and our generation has often been referred to as the “Me” generation. That may have been appropriate at some point in our lives and it may still be an apt description for some, but I get the feeling that more and more of us are looking for ways that we can give back to a community, a society that has done so much for us.
Lisa McVay, GM On-the-Road Reporter | Jul 11, 2020 | Column, December 2010
As we all are lining up for the holiday season, our question to everyone, and to ourselves, is this: What are you grateful for?
Kirk Matthews of KHON’s The Elderhood Project | Jul 11, 2020 | Column, December 2010
Last week, Mrs. Matthews—Linda Coble— had back surgery. The doctor was pleased with the results and four days later, she came home from the hospital. The doctor said to me, “This will be tougher on you than it is on her.” In some ways, he was right. I watch her like a hawk so she won’t do anything she’s not supposed to do during recovery. I bring home the groceries, vacuum, do the dishes, laundry. But in another way, the doctor was wrong. It has been a meaningful experience.
Lisa McVay, GM On-the-Road Reporter | Jul 10, 2020 | Column, November 2010
Sonya Mendez, Entertainer, Founder of The Well of Hope How do you live your life? I live in the moment, because tomorrow is promised to no one. I approach my life and each project with energy and passion. When I helped bring clean water to 10,000 people in Ethiopia for generations to come, I felt that I’d finally made my rent on earth.
Kirk Matthews of KHON’s The Elderhood Project | Jul 10, 2020 | Column, November 2010
In Hawai‘i, our life expectancy is 80 years old. It’s among the longest in the nation (and the world). Living longer is a good thing. However, it also places a new burden on each of us to stay healthy longer. It behooves us to take care of ourselves.
Lisa McVay, GM On-the-Road Reporter | Jul 8, 2020 | Column, October 2010
Sharon Hayashi, Interior Designer What are some of the things that’s fulfilling in your life? I joined the Rotary Club of Metropolitan Honolulu in 1989 for its local and international projects. I have enjoyed renovation projects at Princess Kaiulani School, Hale Kipa Youth Housing, and Clubhouses for the Hawaii Adult Mental Health Hawaii Division. And I serve on the board of Friends of the Library of Hawaii.
Kirk Matthews of KHON’s The Elderhood Project | Jul 8, 2020 | Column, October 2010
My mother just got her first cell phone. It doesn’t take pictures or play music — it just makes phone calls. It took her a while to get used to the idea — she would talk into the wrong end of the phone in the beginning. But she’s got the technology figured out and now she can call me any time. ANY TIME. But I’m glad about that.
Ron Lockwood, Commander VFW Department of Hawaii | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2020
Like our friends at PBS, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the VFW Auxiliary work to be relevant to all ages with early childhood through end-of-life programming. “Patriot Pen” and “Voice of Democracy” programs are available to all public and private middle school and high school students.
Kelika Ishol, Director of Community Relations, ISNR | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2020
Many of us are affected by the anxieties that come with the COVID-19 pandemic. But my boss once told me, “In chaos there is opportunity.” That quote resonated deeply in my heart. How can this be true for a pandemic? I soon learned that some positive things are happening around the world and here in Hawai‘i.
Sherry Goya, Generations Magazine Staff | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2017
When my husband told me in early 2019 that he wanted to retire, my first reaction was, “No, you’re still young and can work until you’re 70.” When we had a serious conversation a few months later, I agreed with his desire to retire, but said, “You need to have an exit plan because I have a home office and don’t want to see you sitting on the couch watching TV.”
Steven Kawamura | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2020
Maybe you’ve never thought of your life in those terms. But everyone, whether they are aware of it or not, has selected a particular pathway in life. The most popular road seems to be aligned with what the world tells us we need — a nice home, a fancy car, a good job, exciting sports events, live entertainment and travel to exotic places. We are told, at least subliminally, that focusing on and fulfilling our needs and wants will lead to a successful, happy life.
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2020
When under stay-at-home orders, online resources enable participation in the outside world. Visit the UH Center on Aging Facebook page for a continually updated list.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jun 2, 2020 | Column, June-July 2020
Even in this time of uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, two simple rules dominate the future of your life’s work and options that are available today: 1) Full-time, regular 8 to 5 jobs are off the radar as the singular source for employment. Sometimes we will work for others this way, but who needs long commutes if they can be easily avoided? 2) Even in the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is likely that we will live longer than any previous generation. Do you wonder how you will handle your financial, mental, emotional and physical health? This is the time to consider multiple strategies.
Paul K. Tanaka, DDS | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
Many patients wish they could enjoy their dentist’s company beyond a quick, customary greeting before their ability to speak is interrupted by the whirr of the drill. Like everyone else, dentists have families, hobbies, enjoy their favorite beverage, have bills to pay and look forward to having fun. And just like everyone else, “busy” is a dentist’s life.
LJ Duenas, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
The vision of the Alzheimer’s Association is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. To realize this vision, we fund research to better diagnose, treat and ultimately cure the disease. In fact, we are the world’s largest nonprofit funder of dementia research. A few highlights of our progress…
Setsuko Matsuoka | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
Our state of mind affects our health, so when you think like a pessimist, always expecting the worst, your fight-or-flight response is often stuck on standby. To illustrate, think of worrisome thoughts as revving your car. It’s useful before a race to test the engine, but if you keep gunning it all the time, you will burn out the motor.
Steven Kawamura | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” Wow, sounds pretty negative doesn’t it. Yet, many men and women who have lived long enough to reach that mythical status known as “the golden years” find out exactly what King Solomon meant in the above quote. All those years of striving to accumulate wealth, land and power now might seem a bit wasted.
Carl Ashizawa, Manager, Logos Bookstore of Hawaii Inc. | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
When people hear that I manage a Christian bookstore at age 70, they think I’m crazy — or a religious fanatic. I assure you, I’m neither. In light of large stores closing and the Barnes and Noble chain struggling to survive; and when Amazon has changed shoppers’ expectations, why do I think we can still run a brick-and-mortar bookstore — and a Christian one at that?
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Mar 24, 2020 | April - May 2020, Column
Whether you wish to work in a full-time, part-time or in a just-in-time capacity — for a fee or for free — here are several predictions based on trends and research for you to consider when preparing to work in your 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond (yes, beyond).
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Jan 27, 2020 | Column, February - March 2020
our first step in exploring your future is to take an internal journey in order to make a decision to work for pay, for fun or for the good of others. Part-time and other ways of working flexibly are bountiful. Many offer unique advantages to mature workers over that old classic — the 9-to-5 job.
Generations Magazine Staff | Jan 26, 2020 | Column, February - March 2020
An interview with author Michael W. K. Yee, Financial Advisor and Ameriprise Certified Financial Planner
Ann Ahlbrecht, Volunteer, Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational | Dec 7, 2019 | Column, Dec 2019 - Jan 2020
I am a retired preschool teacher from Bemidji, Minnesota, and I live in Kā‘anapali, Maui, all winter. I am an active volunteer in both communities and my huge appetite for travel has taken me to many of the world’s countries. My method of solo travel affords me opportunities to explore each destination and its culture at my leisure. Often that means viewing and appreciating its art.
Carleen MacKay | Dec 7, 2019 | Column, Dec 2019 - Jan 2020
In my 2005 book Boom or Bust, I made the case that if you are prepared, it is never too late to do the work you are meant to do throughout the bonus years of your lengthening life. But if you’re not prepared, watch out for the storm clouds ahead.
Carleen MacKay, Emerging Workforce Expert | Sep 29, 2019 | Column, October - November 2019
Over 30 percent of the people who work don’t have full-time jobs. In a few years, that will increase to almost 50 percent. Working even one day a week will provide psycho-social advantages to an engaged senior. There are plenty of options.
Steven Kawamura | Sep 29, 2019 | Column, October - November 2019
Yes, the journey of life continues even after we retire!
How long our journey on Earth will be is one of the unknowns we must live with. In my earlier article, entitled, “I’ve Never Been Old Before,” I wrote about how lost I was when I retired from my career in the federal government. It took me quite a while to find purpose and meaning during the empty days that kept coming at me. Thankfully, I realized how rewarding it is to give back in whatever way you can.
Mae Mendelson | Sep 29, 2019 | Column, October - November 2019
We started taking our grandkids on trips without their parents to create shared memories and to get to know each other in a more personal way. It is somewhat of a tradition in our family. My mother took our children to Japan without us. These trips remain cherished memories. In a way, we are continuing her legacy.
Carleen MacKay | Jul 29, 2019 | August - September 2019, Column
For the past few months, I have been introducing you to the concept of working in new ways beyond the old, familiar routine of working a regular, full-time job in an office. Now, many ask how to optimize their independence from the old, familiar world of work. How are they doing good, making money, overcoming feelings of isolation and having a healthy lifestyle? Let’s begin a new journey by addressing freelancing — i.e., working for yourself.
Stanley Fujii | May 22, 2019 | Column, June - July 2019
Growing up in Hawai‘i, I played a ten-hole harmonica by ear, but lost interest because I could only play the same old songs and was not getting any better. As the years sped by and before I found anything interesting to enrich my life, I became a senior facing retirement. Doing nothing was not an option so I began to search for the elusive experience that would bring harmony into my life.
Steven Kawamura | May 22, 2019 | Column, June - July 2019
I’ve never been old before so this is a new experience for me. After retiring from a 37-year career, I found myself adrift. What should I do now? The days seemed very long as I pondered what I should fill them with. Life looks very different when you remove yourself from the “working world.” You feel as though you are invisible when you are with other people.
Carleen MacKay | May 22, 2019 | Column, June - July 2019
For most mature employed people, work was considered having a job with one or two companies in a working lifetime. Now retired, many may still have debt; few have the savings to take them through their remaining years. Countless mature workers believe that just one more job, perhaps much like the one they just left, is all they need to secure their futures. Unfortunately, those jobs may no longer exist or they may have been completely re-framed so that they are no longer a possibility for most mature workers.
Arlene Thomas, Retired Teacher and Entrepreneur | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Column
Last school year I fell down half a flight of stairs, bruising my left hip. It was an accident where I was just happy I didn’t break anything. At age 63, I should have been more careful! X-rays indicated the need for a hip replacement but, since I’d been practicing self-care for the past fifteen years by using wellness products, I thought I already had everything needed for my body to heal itself.
John A. Hau‘oli Tomoso, Social Worker and Episcopal Priest | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Column
The profession of social work’s claim to fame is the theory “Person-in-Environment” or PIE. Not only does the social worker relate and deal with the person but also the environment and relationships he or she lives with; those intimate realities of life that affect the “personhood.”
Carleen MacKay | Apr 5, 2019 | April - May 2019, Column
Let go of the past. You are both the author and central character of your Third Act. Let your imagination wander as you read about new ways people over 50, 60, 70 and beyond are having fun, making money and devoting their creativity and energy to all the areas of their jam-packed lives.
Lois Reiswig, President, Maui Arts League | Feb 1, 2019 | Column, February - March 2019
My current goal is to help Maui Arts League build a Visual Fine Arts Museum on West Maui — for our children, residents and visitors. My husband and I have always valued art and were inspired by collecting fine art. I believe art makes people happy. What could be better than surrounding yourself with family, good friends, delicious healthy food and beautiful art?
Bruce Carlson, Retired Aquarium Director | Feb 1, 2019 | Column, February - March 2019
The biggest surprise about retirement is that I am busier now than when I had a regular job. My to-do list seems to get longer every day, even though I know I am continually completing tasks. Keeping busy with meaningful work is good advice to anyone contemplating retirement.
Carleen MacKay | Jan 31, 2019 | Column, February - March 2019
Portfolio workers are the “Jugglers” of multiple opportunities who know a diversified work portfolio increases the probability of realizing financial and personal success, improves their sense of control and boosts feelings of security.
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Jan 31, 2019 | Column, February - March 2019
Ageism is discrimination and negative stereotyping on the basis of a person’s age. It permeates the media and everyday conversations to such an extent and in such subtle ways that people may accept negative stereotypes of older adults (“forgetful,” “grouchy,” “less competent”) as truth, unconscious of their bias.
Edward Motosue, Co-Principal and Vice President of Financial Benefits Insurance Inc. | Jan 28, 2019 | Column, February - March 2019
Seniors not only have to exercise and stay physically and mentally fit; they also need to make their money last longer. Social Security, regular investments (stocks, mutual funds) and retirement plans (401k, IRA) now have to account for an extended life span.
Pratibha Eastwood, PhD, Licensed Psychologist | Dec 2, 2018 | Column, Dec 2018 Jan 2019
Maggie threw her pen at the computer. “Oh no! I can’t find the email I just wrote to my grandson. I hate the computer! Why can’t we go back to the way things used to be before the technology monster took over, when we talked to each other in person or on the phone?”...
Mahlon Moore | Dec 2, 2018 | Column, Dec 2018 Jan 2019
Find something you’re passionate about and stick with it! That’s the advice Ed Gayagas has followed for himself and the message he passes along to others.
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Dec 2, 2018 | Column, Dec 2018 Jan 2019
I have learned a lot about setting goals from interacting with my smartwatch! The S.M.A.R.T. approach to setting goals has been around far longer than smartwatches, but the watches demonstrate perfectly the basic S.M.A.R.T. concepts originally created in 1981 by George T. Doran as a management tool but relevant for any type of goal.
Carleen MacKay | Dec 2, 2018 | Column, Dec 2018 Jan 2019
If you are 50, 60, 70 or 80 today and need — or want — to continue to work, there is an exciting, fast-rising world emerging; a world filled with new ways of working and earning your way in Hawai‘i!
Margaret A. Perkinson, PhD, University of Hawaii at Mānoa | Sep 26, 2018 | Column, October - November 2018
Family caregivers of older adults undergo fairly predictable stages in their caregiving careers. Each stage brings different challenges and requires different kinds of help for both the care receiver and family caregiver.